Malaysian's determination and hardwork in maintaining harmony in its multi-racial society brings tranquillity to the country, said Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in his Christmas message tonight.

"Events around the world in the past one year have proven once again that narrow mindedness and intolerance only breeds great loss and pain to all," he was quoted as saying by Bernama .

The premier also expressed happiness over the tradition of sharing and caring in the country practiced by Malaysians of all faiths.

"We must learn from history and not waver for one second, lest the harmony in our society goes out of synchronisation," he said.

In the spirit of Christmas, Abdullah reminded Malaysians to spare their thoughts to the less fortunate and those facing hardship, such as the flood victims.

"The generosity and warmth of Malaysians have been well documented and I call upon all Malaysians to display this generosity once again. Let us lend a helping hand to those who have to spend this festive season in great adversity," he said.

The premier wished that all Malaysians continue their spirit of camaraderie and celebrate successes and victories big and small, personal and shared.

"I take this opportunity to wish my fellow Malaysians of Christian faith a very merry Christmas. May peace and love that we enjoy reign forever in this blessed land," he said.

Religious freedom

MCA president Ong Ka Ting in his message urged Malaysians to reflect on the nation's belief in religious freedom.

Ong, who is Housing and Local Government Minister, said Christmas is not only a time for sharing gifts among friends and family members, but an extension of respect for each other's beliefs, despite our own individual religious background.

He urged society to extend the sharing spirit to those less fortunate regardless of creed or religion, "because we are a caring nation that will not allow poverty and desolation to mar our path to be a competitive and prosperous nation".

Meanwhile, MIC president S Samy Vellu, in his message urged the Indian community of Christian faith to continue the tradition of holding open houses to foster closes ties with friends of other races.

Tsunami anniversary

Gerakan president Dr Lim Keng Yaik in his Christmas message called on Malaysians to reflect on their blessings and think of how to share their prosperity with the communities and those who are lesser fortunate.

"This Christmas is especially poignant as it marks the first anniversary of the Boxing Day 2004 Tsunami that dramatically changed so many lives 12 months ago," he said.

"While nations rebuild and society slowly recover, I urge Malaysians to open their lives, their pockets and their time for a noble cause this Christmas season. Spread the goodwill, give whatever you can to charity, or volunteer your services for a noble cause," added Lim, who is also energy, water and communications minister.

And finally, PPP president M Kayveas urged Malaysians to uphold the spirit of brotherhood regardless of race, faith and creed.

The spirit of sharing celebrations allows Malaysians to foster mutual understanding, added the deputy minister in the prime minister's department.